PETA mourns Gina Lopez's passing, remembers her for help in free Mali campaign

The People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA) on Monday mourned the passing of former Environment Secretary Regina "Gina" Lopez.

In a statement, PETA manager Ashley Fruno recalled how Lopez helped the group in its campaign to free Mali the elephant from Manila Zoo.

"One of her greatest dreams was to see Mali free from loneliness and suffering at the Manila Zoo, and she played a crucial part in PETA's campaign to accomplish that," Fruno said.

Lopez, who had brain cancer, passed away on Monday at the age of 65. PETA described her as an "animal lover, Earth warrior, and activist."

"Gina Lopez... will be missed by all who came into contact with her," the group said. "Her passion for protecting the planet made her a leader for animal and environmental protection."

Fruno said they hope people will emulate Lopez's example "by following their hearts to do what's right, fighting for the environment and animals by standing up for them." —KBK, GMA News